I know exactly how you feel. I am a 49 year old female. I had a ACDF (C5-C7) four years ago. I have been in constant pain since the surgery. I have pain in both of my arms and weakness in both hands.My neck and shoulders hurt and I have terrible headaches everyday. I have been seeing a pain management doctor for a year and a half. I've had several epidural injections, nerve blocks, PT and I am on Fentynel patches 100mcg and Oxycontin, and I'm still in unbearable pain. I've not slept in a bed since I had surgery due to the pain and both arms and hands being completely numb. I may get 2 or 3 hours a night sleeping in the recliner. I recently had another MRI and it said that the disks above and below the fusion are buldging. I also have DDD, but my surgeon says that surgery would not benefit me at this time.
I have been to the point to where I was ready to blow my brains out. I've been seeing a mental health therapist for about 6 months, but the antidepressants or the therapy are not helping. I have not worked since before the surgery, nor will I ever be able to work in this kind of pain. I finally was approved for SSD. I have two young children and I can not even care for them. I depend on my husband and family to do everything for me.
Finding a good pain management doctor and getting the right combination of meds could make a world of difference. When I first went on Fentynel it really did help. Good luck.
sorry 2 hear ur in so much pain i totally understand how ur feeling its so degrading isnt it.i dont have the pain in my left arm since i had the op but still have pains in my hand n wrist,elbow,i 2 find it unbearable sleeping in bed,wot is SSD? n yes i totally agree with the finding a gud p/management n tablets it just seem endless really. i really hope u find something that helps x
SSD is Social Security Disability. I'm currently waiting on approval for a spinal cord stimulator. That seens like my last chance at getting some relief. I hope your find something that will give you some relief.